Quick Links

Robotic Surgery

Doctors at OHSU perform robotic-assisted surgery for a number of gynecologic conditions using the da Vinci Surgical Robot, which enables surgeons to perform with unmatched precision and control – using only a few small incisions.

Robotic surgery can be used to treat

Some ovarian cysts and masses

Prolapse (falling) of pelvic organs

Some fibroids

Heavy uterine bleeding

Cervical and endometrial cancer

Some cases of endometriosis

Robotic surgical procedures at OHSU include

Hysterectomy

Myomectomy (removal of fibroids)

Sacrocolpopexy (treatment for pelvic organ prolapse)

Removal of ovarian cysts and masses

Treatment of cervical and endometrial cancer

Benefits

Robotic surgery can offer numerous potential benefits over traditional approaches, which often involve making a large abdominal incision. Potential benefits include:

Less pain during recovery

Less blood loss

Fewer complications

Less scarring

A shorter hospital stay

A faster return to normal daily activities

How the robotic system works

The robot system consists of two interactive mechanical arms, a camera arm, a three-dimensional (3D) image processing system and a remote control unit. The unit is located in the same operating room as the patient and surgeons. As the surgeon manipulates the remote control unit, the motions of the surgeon are translated to the robotic arms. Each robotic arm consists of multiple appendages connected by joints. The "hand" of the robot holds interchangeable surgical instruments that can be moved in a manner similar to a human wrist. At all times, a second surgeon is positioned at the operating table to assist with exchanging the instruments on the robotic arms.